Divine Purpose
Divine purpose in the Bible refers to God's intentional design and plan for creation, humanity, and individual lives. It underscores the belief that God is sovereign and actively involved in the unfolding of history. Scriptures such as Jeremiah 29:11 reveal this concept, where God declares, "For I know the plans I have for you," indicating a specific and benevolent purpose for His people. Additionally, Romans 8:28 reinforces this idea by affirming that "all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose," suggesting that God's overarching plan is ultimately for the good of those who align with His will.The notion of divine purpose also entails the idea of stewardship and calling. In Ephesians 2:10, believers are described as "created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand," indicating that each individual has a unique role in the divine narrative. This purpose can manifest in various ways, including personal vocation, community service, and spiritual gifts, all aimed at fulfilling God's glory and advancing His kingdom on Earth. Thus, divine purpose encompasses both the grand narrative of salvation history and the specific callings placed upon individual lives within that story.
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The Horizon of Divine Purpose - Part 1
By T. Austin-Sparks2.2K59:58Divine PurposeEXO 19:5EXO 34:14NUM 25:1DEU 7:6ISA 5:13JER 50:1EZK 1:26In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of seeing the person and purpose as interconnected. They express a strong burden for delivering this message and believe it is crucial for the current time. The speaker mentions the presence of defilement and corruption in the world and the need to return to a pure testimony to God. They refer to the major and minor prophets in the Bible, highlighting their focus on specific characteristics of God. The sermon concludes with the reminder that the battle for testimony revolves around the impact of the Lord's presence, emphasizing the necessity of recognizing and meeting Him.
The Horizon of Divine Purpose - Part 5
By T. Austin-Sparks2.0K53:30Divine PurposeEXO 32:31PHP 4:3HEB 12:23REV 13:8REV 17:8REV 20:15REV 21:27In this sermon, the speaker discusses the concept of life as portrayed in the Bible. He emphasizes that man's disobedience led to the withholding of a completing factor, resulting in a life marked by vanity and unfulfilled quests. The speaker highlights the importance of life as the ultimate criterion and the key theme throughout the Bible. He points out that the purpose of Jesus' incarnation was to provide humanity with this life. The sermon encourages listeners to test and experience this life for themselves, as it brings true satisfaction and fulfillment.
The Horizon of Divine Purpose - Part 8
By T. Austin-Sparks1.8K38:22Divine PurposeNUM 22:1EZK 21:19EZK 21:27EZK 28:2HEB 12:26REV 2:1In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of having a clear understanding of God's purpose in our lives. He warns that if we lose sight of this purpose, our Christian life will suffer and we will be devastated. The purpose of God is to gather all things in Christ and have preeminence over everything. The speaker also discusses the rise and fall of world powers and how they are part of God's plan. He concludes by urging listeners to not become complacent or formal in their faith, but to continually seek God's purpose and live it out in their lives.
The Horizon of Divine Purpose - Part 6
By T. Austin-Sparks1.8K1:04:02Divine PurposeISA 55:11ACT 16:9EPH 1:23EPH 4:8EPH 4:13In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of Jesus as a prophet and a supreme example of God's sovereignty. The purpose of Jesus' life was to rebuke and show what God required of his people, ultimately laying down his life for them. The speaker also highlights the need for continuity and a focused mind when studying the word of God. The ultimate goal for believers is to attain the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ and for the church to be the fullness of Him.
The Horizon of Divine Purpose - Part 3
By T. Austin-Sparks1.7K33:46Divine PurposeMAT 6:33ROM 12:9GAL 6:2PHP 4:1HEB 12:61JN 4:7In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the letter to the Philippians and the Apostle Paul's deep love for the church. The speaker emphasizes that Paul is pouring out his knowledge and spiritual understanding to the church, even in his final days. The speaker highlights the practical aspects of love, such as caring for others and sacrificing for their well-being. The sermon concludes with a prayer for the listeners to have a genuine experience of sitting at the feet of Jesus and hearing His voice through the Holy Spirit.
The Horizon of Divine Purpose - Part 7
By T. Austin-Sparks1.6K1:01:49Divine PurposeEZK 3:17EZK 12:6EZK 33:7MAT 6:33ROM 8:28EPH 4:10REV 1:1In this sermon, the speaker discusses the purpose and work of God in the lives of believers. He emphasizes that God is working to reproduce the image of Christ in every believer through new birth and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. The speaker also highlights the importance of discipline, training, and various life experiences in the development of Christ-likeness. He acknowledges that the ways of God may be incomprehensible to us, but they ultimately produce a message and make believers messengers of life. The sermon concludes with a call for believers to embrace their responsibility as witnesses for God and to be watchmen who understand the times and convey God's purposes to others.
The Horizon of Divine Purpose - Part 2
By T. Austin-Sparks1.6K47:47Divine PurposeISA 58:1In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of having a clear vision and purpose in the Christian life. He states that true vision and purpose are not just talked about, but are evidenced by a deep incentive and energy to pursue a specific goal. The speaker uses the example of the apostle Paul, who had a singular focus and was not tentative or uncertain in his pursuit of God's purpose. He encourages the audience to commit themselves to the leading and empowerment of the Holy Spirit in order to fulfill their purpose as Christians.
The Horizon of Divine Purpose - Part 4
By T. Austin-Sparks1.5K50:01Divine PurposeJHN 1:1EPH 1:17EPH 2:21EPH 3:14In this sermon, the speaker shares an illustration of a bus journey with a fellow passenger who was trying to read a book but was unable to due to the unsettledness of the bus. The speaker relates this to the idea that there are certain things we can only grasp when we are still and focused. The speaker then discusses a sequence of separate petitions that are important for us to understand and apply in our lives as we seek to become a habitation for God. The sermon emphasizes the need for strengthening by the Holy Spirit in our inner being and the importance of inviting Jesus into our lives and allowing Him to have full control.
Resurrection Road to Life
By Leonard Ravenhill7051:35Divine PurposeResurrectionACT 26:12Leonard Ravenhill emphasizes the transformative power of the resurrection of Jesus Christ as the cornerstone of Christianity, using the Apostle Paul's encounter on the Damascus road as a profound example of personal revelation and divine purpose. He argues that the resurrection is not just a theological concept but a living reality that empowers believers to witness and minister to others, turning them from darkness to light. Ravenhill passionately calls for the church to awaken to its mission, highlighting the urgency of sharing the gospel in a world still shrouded in spiritual blindness and darkness.
Seeing the Glory of God
By Phil Beach Jr.2745:25Seeing God's GloryDivine PurposeGlory Of GodREV 4:1Phil Beach Jr. emphasizes the importance of seeing the glory of God, highlighting that God's ultimate intention is to reveal Himself to creation. He warns against distractions that can obscure our vision of God's purpose and glory, urging believers to focus on the spiritual realities that connect us to God's sovereignty. The sermon illustrates how God's call is not about individual recognition but about fulfilling His divine purpose through us, as exemplified in the lives of biblical figures like Moses. Beach encourages the congregation to turn aside from worldly distractions and seek a deeper understanding of God's glory and purpose in their lives. Ultimately, he calls for a response of worship and surrender to God's eternal plan.
Pliability Unto Placement Eph 1_1-4
By Phil Beach Jr.2528:35PliabilityChristian LifeDivine PurposeEPH 1:1Phil Beach Jr. emphasizes the concept of 'pliability unto placement' in his sermon on Ephesians 1:1-4, illustrating how understanding our identity in Christ is crucial for discovering our purpose. He explains that true pliability, which is the ability to be shaped by God, leads to our rightful placement in His plan. The preacher encourages believers to seek a close relationship with Jesus, as it is through this intimacy that we can align our desires with God's will. He highlights that our struggles often arise from trying to assert our own plans instead of yielding to God's guidance. Ultimately, Beach reassures that God has a specific purpose for each believer, and by being pliable, we can fulfill His good pleasure in our lives.
The Joseph Company
By David Wilkerson3Faith through TrialsDivine PurposeGEN 45:7David Wilkerson emphasizes the journey of Joseph, who despite facing betrayal, slavery, and imprisonment, was ultimately used by God to save many lives. Through his trials, Joseph was prepared for a significant purpose, illustrating that God raises a 'Joseph Company' in every generation, composed of devoted individuals who endure hardships to fulfill God's calling. Wilkerson encourages believers to recognize their own divine purpose and to step forward with bold faith, as God has preserved them for a reason. The message highlights that true faith is tested and proven through adversity, leading to a greater impact for God's kingdom.
The Nature and Reality of Spiritual Energy
By T. Austin-Sparks2Divine PurposeSpiritual EnergyLUK 2:49JHN 2:11JHN 5:19JHN 5:30JHN 9:4JHN 10:16JHN 14:10JHN 16:132CO 12:5EPH 3:20T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the nature and reality of spiritual energy in the life of Christ, illustrating how His purposeful actions were driven by divine energy from above. He highlights that Jesus' life was characterized by continuous movement and activity, fueled by the Holy Spirit, and that this same energy is available to believers today. Sparks urges the church to recognize that true spiritual life is not passive but actively engages with the world, reflecting God's purpose and power in every situation. He warns against relying on human strength, asserting that eternal value comes only from God's energy and direction. Ultimately, the sermon calls for believers to embody the heavenly resources available to them in their daily lives.
Making the Most of Today
By A.W. Tozer1Divine PurposeLiving in the PresentPHP 3:13A.W. Tozer emphasizes the futility of longing for the past and encourages believers to focus on the present and future. He argues that each individual is called to serve their own generation and that true fulfillment comes from engaging with God in the present moment. Tozer warns against the temptation to retreat into nostalgia, suggesting that such behavior reflects a lack of willingness to confront current challenges. Instead, he urges Christians to explore the richness of divine grace available today and to fulfill their God-given responsibilities. Ultimately, it is in our 'today' that we can experience God's presence and purpose.
Our Daily Homily - Esther
By F.B. Meyer1Godly LeadershipDivine Purpose1TI 3:4F.B. Meyer emphasizes the importance of godly leadership within the home, drawing parallels between a man's authority in his household and Christ's authority from the Father. He highlights Esther's pivotal role in God's plan for deliverance, illustrating how God prepares for our needs even when His presence is not overtly acknowledged. The sermon encourages believers to recognize their positions as opportunities for divine purpose and to act with love and integrity, as exemplified by Mordecai and Esther. Meyer reassures that God is always at work for our good, urging us to trust in His plans and to seek the welfare of others. Ultimately, he calls for a life marked by selflessness and a commitment to peace, reflecting Christ's character in our interactions.
The Divine Purpose From Eternity
By T. Austin-Sparks1Divine PurposeObedience to GodPSA 89:19T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes that the Bible is filled with men who embody distinct features of God's character, ultimately pointing to Christ. He illustrates how figures like David represent God's thoughts and purposes, particularly in being a man after God's own heart, which involves complete obedience to God's will. Sparks contrasts David with Saul, highlighting that true devotion to God requires the rejection of personal judgment and the natural life that opposes God's work. The sermon culminates in the understanding that the collective body of believers, the Church, is the fulfillment of God's eternal purpose, reflecting His moral nature. Ultimately, the message calls for a heart aligned with God's desires, exemplified in the life of David and fulfilled in Christ.
A Vessel for the Rights of God
By T. Austin-Sparks0Spiritual WarfareDivine PurposeGEN 1:26T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the divine purpose behind the creation of man, which is to glorify God through true worship. He explains that man was uniquely created to have a spiritual connection with God, but through disobedience, this connection was severed, allowing Satan to manipulate humanity for his own ends. The sermon highlights the battle between God's rights and Satan's counterfeit, culminating in the victory of Christ, who embodies God's rights and restores the relationship between God and man. Sparks urges believers to recognize the importance of being conformed to the image of Christ rather than focusing solely on outward actions, as true worship and glory to God stem from this inner transformation.
The Purpose of Companions
By T. Austin-Sparks0Companionship with ChristDivine PurposeEXO 33:11ISA 41:8MAT 21:43LUK 22:28JHN 15:14ACT 13:22EPH 1:23HEB 2:3HEB 3:1HEB 3:14T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the profound significance of being 'companions' of Christ, as highlighted in Hebrews 3:1 and 3:14. He explores the biblical concept of companionship, illustrating how figures like Abraham, Moses, and David exemplified deep relationships with God, ultimately culminating in the companionship offered through Jesus Christ. Sparks stresses that this companionship is not merely an official title but a heartfelt relationship that calls for responsibility and commitment to God's purpose centered in His Son. He warns of the consequences of neglecting this calling, underscoring the importance of remaining steadfast in faith to truly experience the greatness of being a companion of Christ. The sermon invites believers to recognize their heavenly calling and the intimate relationship they are invited to share with Jesus.
Does God Afflict His Children?
By David Wilkerson0AfflictionDivine PurposePSA 66:10David Wilkerson addresses the question of whether God afflicts His children, emphasizing that while God allows trials and afflictions to refine and prepare His beloved for a place of abundant fruitfulness, He does not take pleasure in their suffering. The psalmist reflects on the hardships endured, illustrating that these challenges serve a divine purpose, leading to spiritual growth and maturity. Wilkerson reassures that not all afflictions stem from God, as many arise from the enemy, and God’s intention is never to harm but to ultimately bless His children. He shares personal experiences of enduring multiple afflictions, affirming that God has always brought him through, reinforcing the truth of His Word.
This World He Made for Himself, to Be His Joy and His Glory.
By Andrew Murray0God's LoveDivine PurposeGEN 1:31PSA 136:1ISA 53:4MAT 11:28JHN 3:16ROM 5:8EPH 2:42PE 1:41JN 3:11JN 4:9Andrew Murray emphasizes that God created the world for His own joy and glory, and the sin and suffering within it deeply grieve Him. Despite the pain caused by human free will, God's love is unwavering, demonstrated through the sacrifice of His Son, Jesus Christ. This profound love is beyond human understanding, yet it is available to all who seek to experience it. Murray encourages believers to open their hearts to God's compassion and to recognize their part in His divine nature. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a deeper connection with God's love and a commitment to share it with others.
The Incentive to Maturity
By T. Austin-Sparks0Divine PurposeSpiritual MaturityROM 8:19ROM 8:291CO 3:12CO 3:18GAL 3:26GAL 4:6GAL 4:19EPH 1:5EPH 4:13HEB 2:10T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the urgency of spiritual maturity in his sermon 'The Incentive to Maturity', highlighting that the New Testament is primarily focused on urging believers towards full growth in Christ. He explains that maturity is essential not just for personal development but for fulfilling God's divine purpose, which includes governance over the world to come. Sparks points out that the letters of Paul address various aspects of spiritual growth, stressing that immaturity hinders believers from realizing their calling and inheritance as children of God. He underscores the importance of understanding our identity in Christ and the necessity of pressing on towards maturity to fulfill God's eternal purpose. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a deep commitment to spiritual growth as a response to God's grace and purpose.
Earthen Vessels
By David Wilkerson0God's Power in WeaknessDivine PurposePSA 34:18ISA 40:29MAT 5:14ROM 4:31CO 1:262CO 4:72CO 12:9PHP 4:132TI 1:71PE 2:9David Wilkerson emphasizes the profound truth found in 2 Corinthians 4:7, which reveals that God places His treasure in earthen vessels, highlighting our human frailty and weaknesses. He explains that God intentionally chooses the weak and foolish to demonstrate His power, as seen in 1 Corinthians 1:26-29, and that our imperfections do not disqualify us from being used by Him. Wilkerson encourages believers to embrace their vulnerabilities, as God delights in working through those who recognize their need for Him, just as He did with figures like Abraham. The sermon reassures us that despite our struggles and shortcomings, we are vessels of God's glory and purpose.
"Looking Unto Jesus"
By T. Austin-Sparks0Focus on JesusDivine PurposePRO 4:25T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the importance of focusing our gaze on Jesus as the ultimate goal and prize of our faith. He warns against various distractions that can lead us off course, such as looking back, around, or inward, which can hinder our spiritual progress. The sermon highlights that our journey is not just about personal salvation but about aligning our lives with God's greater purpose. By keeping our eyes fixed on Jesus, we can navigate through life's challenges with confidence, knowing that He has already paved the way for us. Ultimately, Sparks encourages believers to adjust their lives in accordance with God's eternal purpose, ensuring that every decision reflects this focus.
The Church: Its Birth, Vocation and Completion
By T. Austin-Sparks0Divine PurposeThe ChurchT. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the profound significance of the Church in God's plan, presenting it as the body of Christ, chosen and called out to fulfill a divine purpose. He explains that the Church is not merely an assembly of individuals but a collective entity that embodies Christ's fullness and serves as a vessel for His expression. The sermon explores various biblical representations of the Church, including its role as the House of God, a holy nation, and the Bride of Christ, highlighting its eternal value and the divine order established within it. Sparks underscores the Church's calling to reflect God's excellencies and to be a living testimony of Christ's character in the world. Ultimately, he assures that despite present challenges, the Church will be presented to Christ in its glorious completion.
Esther 4:13
By Chuck Smith0Surrender to GodDivine PurposeEST 4:14ISA 46:10JER 29:11ROM 8:28ROM 12:1Chuck Smith emphasizes that God has a unique plan and purpose for each individual, illustrated through the story of Esther. He explains how past events, even those that seem disastrous, are part of God's divine preparation for fulfilling His purpose in our lives. Smith reassures that God's sovereignty ensures His purposes will prevail, and even if we fail, we can still find meaning by aligning ourselves with His will. He encourages listeners to commit their lives to God, suggesting that our past experiences, including failures, may be preparation for significant moments in our lives. Ultimately, he challenges us to consider what we have to lose by fully surrendering to God's plan.